If your child is complaining that things sound muffled or like they can’t hear as well, it’s understandable to be concerned. However, not all hearing loss is permanent, and in many cases, temporary hearing loss in children is due to common conditions that can be easily treated. In this blog, we’ll go over some of the most common causes of temporary hearing loss in children and discuss treatment options.
Middle Ear Infections
Middle ear infections are incredibly common in young children—five out of six children will experience at least one ear infection by their third birthday. This type of infection occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
Symptoms of a Middle Ear Infection:
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Fluid drainage from the ear
If your child is too young to vocalize their discomfort, watch for signs such as:
- Tugging or pulling at their ear
- Trouble sleeping
- Acting fussier than usual
- Balance issues
- Not responding when you speak to them
Most ear infections resolve on their own, and once the infection clears, your child’s hearing typically returns to normal. However, in cases of severe or frequent infections, a healthcare provider may recommend antibiotics or other treatments.
Earwax Buildup
Our ears naturally produce earwax, which helps protect and clean the ear canal. However, excessive earwax can accumulate and cause a blockage, leading to temporary hearing loss. This buildup is often caused by using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear, which can push wax further into the canal instead of removing it.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup:
- Earache
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
- Temporary hearing loss
If you suspect that earwax buildup is causing your child’s hearing issues, it’s best to schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist. They can safely remove the earwax in just a few minutes, and your child’s hearing should return to normal soon after.
Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear is an outer ear canal infection that occurs when water gets trapped in the ear, creating a moist environment for bacteria to grow. It’s most common after swimming, particularly in non-chlorinated water, but it can also develop after baths or showers.
Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear:
- Pain in the ear
- Itching in the ear canal
- Swelling in the ear canal
Treatment for swimmer’s ear typically involves antibiotic drops, and the infection usually clears up within a few days. To prevent swimmer’s ear, make sure your child’s ears are dry and clean after swimming or bathing.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your child’s hearing loss persists or if you suspect a more serious issue, it’s essential to seek medical advice. A pediatric audiologist can assess the situation and determine whether the hearing loss is temporary or if further treatment is necessary.
At Evergreen Speech and Hearing Clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing issues in children. If you’re concerned that your child may be experiencing hearing loss, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.